Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a major annoyance and confidence-breaker. As embarrassing as it can be, bad breath is a frequent problem that affects people of all ages and can be caused by a variety of factors. In some cases, bad breath may be a sign of a more serious health problem. If you are experiencing bad breath, it is important to consult with your dentist to determine why your foul-smelling breath is occurring and find the best treatment. Halitosis can significantly affect the quality of life. Fortunately, there are several ways to treat bad breath.

What are the Causes of Bad Breath?

• Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene is the most common cause. If you don't brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque will build up on your teeth and gums. This bacteria will produce offensive-smelling gases that escape from your mouth when you speak or breathe. 

• Food particles

Food particles can also be the reason you have halitosis. When these bits of food decay in your mouth, they release unpleasant odors.

• Dry mouth

Dry mouth can also lead to bad breath. Saliva is responsible for keeping the mouth clean and free of bacteria and debris. When saliva production decreases, bad breath is more likely to occur. 

• Smoking or other Tobacco Use

Tobacco use in any form, including chewing tobacco, can cause bad breath. The nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco products can dry out your mouth and create an environment where bacteria thrive. These bacteria produce a foul-smelling sulfur compound that is one of the main reasons for halitosis. In addition, cigarette smoke contains over 4,000 chemicals, including hydrogen cyanide and benzene. These chemicals irritate the lining of the mouth and throat and can cause offensive breath. Smoking also makes plaque build up on teeth, which can lead to gum disease and cavities.

How Can I Treat or Prevent Bad Breath?

• Brush Those Teeth!

It's estimated that around 85% of cases of unpleasant breath are attributed to oral hygiene problems, such as poor oral care habits and gum disease. Practicing good oral hygiene habits and seeing your dentist regularly are the best ways to prevent bad breath. Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste will help you in keeping your breath fresh. 

• Use the Correct Tools

A tongue scraper, which is a tool used to clean the surface of your tongue, can help remove bacteria and food particles that may accumulate on your tongue and lead to bad breath.

• Drink Up!

Drinking plenty of water can help keep your mouth healthy by washing away bacteria and food particles. It can also help keep your lips and cheeks hydrated, which can reduce the likelihood of developing dry mouth.

Stay away from Certain Foods.

Avoiding foods that cause halitosis is another important way to maintain good oral health. Some foods that may contribute to bad breath include garlic, onions, and coffee. Also, avoiding sugar can help your breath to be fresher.

What if Home Prevention Isn't Enough?

If you still have bad breath after practicing good oral hygiene, you may need to see a dentist for treatment. The dentist can treat the underlying cause of your halitosis and may prescribe an antibacterial mouthwash or other medications to help get rid of the bacteria that are causing the problem.

 Luckily, bad breath is a common problem that can be treated by a dentist. Halitosis has multiple causes, and the best way to treat it is to find out the reason and address it. If you have bad breath, see Coral West Dental for ideas on how to fix this noxious problem, and you'll be on your way to fresher breath in no time!